Posted:25-June-2024
Award-winning Card Connection business for sale
- Name: David and Sherran Patient
- Territory: Essex/ Suffolk
- Franchise: Card Connection Chelmsford
- Date launched the franchise: 1992 – We ourselves have operated since July 2019
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you were doing prior to buying your Card Connection franchise?
David: I have spent my entire career in retail. In my teens, I started working in my local Shell petrol station, and by the age of 24, I had been promoted to Senior Retail Area Manager.
I went into business for myself aged 28, becoming a multi-award winning Esso Licensee (up to national level) for the next 15 years, progressing on to operate a group of high volume / high performing filling stations with them.
During that time we bought a underperforming convenience store which we developed and increased sales 10 fold within the next 20 years. We added an award-winning local Post Office to the many facilities we offered. This store received many awards within the industry at local and national level. In 2018 we sold the business to a national convenience chain.
Card Connection used to supply greeting cards to our store via the local Franchisee and so it was a brand we both knew really well. When our local franchisee announced they were retiring, we decided to take on the franchise.
Why did you decide to go down the franchise route?
It was more to do with the business, as it was one we had dealt with in the past and knew really well. We understood the potential of it. Also be able to operate from home and spending more time with family was important to me.
Why have you decided to sell your business?
We have decided that we wish to semi-retire and spend more time with family.
What’s the key selling points of your business?
- Well-established organisation and business
- Turn-key established business with low risk
- Profitable
- You’re your own boss
- Able to run it from home
- Gives you flexibility
- Great meeting customers and building up relationships and sales with them.
What support should the new franchisee expect to receive?
Full support from Card Connections Regional Sales Manager in the field and also from Card Connection’s Head Office.
What is a typical day for you as a franchisee?
Go out visiting retailers in organised runs and with pre packed boxes of cards based on their sales data.
Count stock, invoice accordingly and replenish and remerchandise. Aim to build sales and business on each visit.
What is the most invaluable piece of advice you could give someone looking to buy their first franchise?
Do your research and be prepared to work hard for your rewards.
In your opinion, what makes a successful franchisee?
For Card Connection it is high standards, having an eye for detail, good organisational and people skills. You must also be hard working and a self-starter. Need to be accurate and be able develop your business skills.
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